Ahhhh – sweet summertime has arrived! The season of swimming pools, friends, outdoors, time with family, hitting the beach and long sunny days. And it’s no surprise that this time of year – temperatures rise not only outside – but inside too. So below are some of the best ways to stay cool this summer without breaking the bank on your electrical bill!

Here Are 10 Tips To Beat The Texas Heat! 

Stay Hydrated

During the summer months it’s easy to find ourselves getting hot and overheated. Staying hydrated is vital to your overall health and well being. When you are lacking hydration you are increasing your chances of heat strokes, heat exhaustion and even can lead to death. Drink plenty of water – and stay in the shade as much as possible. 

Keep your windows closed during the daytime hours

Keeping your windows closed during the day helps block out the hottest of temperatures. It also helps to keep the temperature inside your home from rising to an uncompromising temperature. And one which your AC Unit is having to work overtime. 

Set your fans counter clockwise

Setting your fan counter clockwise improves the airflow in your room – shifting the cooler air down to the floor. Which in turn will help your AC unit run more efficiency as well! The easiest way to check if your fan is set for summertime, is to start by turning your fan on. If you feel an immediate breeze, your fan is set correctly. If not, then look for a switch on the side of your fan. That will start your fan running in the correct direction. 

P.S.! – Now would also be a great time to clean your fan blades! Reduce the amount of allergens, pet dander, dirt, and dust that is being blown inside your room. 

Avoid doing the hot stuff 

Avoid running ovens, dryers, dishwashers, or other appliances that put off excessive heat during the day if you can avoid it. Other methods include; the grill, crockpots, microwaves, convection ovens, and skillets. Appliances such as these are shown to decrease heat levels inside a home by a significant amount unlike their more often used counterparts. 

Ice Ice Baby Wipes

An unusual way to keep cool on the go is to put a pack of baby wipes in your refrigerator before you go. They cool your core temperature down quickly without causing as much of a shock as using ice or an icepack. This method is ideal for little ones during summer activities. 

Lighten The Load 

Using fabrics such as cotton, linen and bamboo on your bedding are shown to help in improving the heat retention while you sleep. Now would be the time to also switch to your summer comforter – something a little more light and airy. 

Wet Your Curtains

Maybe grandma knew what she was talking about afterall. An unusual but effective way to keep a room cool is to spritz the curtains with water. Opening the window allowing cool breezy air to pass through is optimal. But if it’s too warm you can do the same thing with the curtains and a box fan. 

Hang out downstairs 

If you live in a two story house – you may find that it’s cooler downstairs more so than upstairs. Why is that? Well it’s physics really; heat rises. Hot or warm air is going to gravitate to the higher areas of your home. For multi-story homes, separate thermostats for upstairs and downstairs or a zoned system are the best ways to maintain an even temperature and keep the whole family happy during the summertime.

Plant Trees 

Trees are not only beautiful to look at they are extremely important to have around for more reasons than one! A big leafy tree near the house can shave a few degrees off your home’s overall internal temperature.

Improve Your Homes Insulation

A common misconception is that insulation is just meant to keep heat in. However, it’s meant to keep heat out too. Checking your home’s insulation and seals regularly as well as providing regular maintenance will improve not only the temperature in your home, but the effectiveness of your AC unit overall as well. 

Conclusion 

Staying cool is the new cool. So, if your home’s air conditioner isn’t working here are a couple of things you can do additional until your AC unit is finished with repairs. You can use this time to visit places like your local malls, libraries, movie theatres, or indoor recreational areas. 

The best way to ensure you’re not unexpectedly caught without air conditioning when the Texas heat becomes too much to handle is to keep your AC system in good condition and on a regular maintenance plan. Regular HVAC maintenance, such as tune-ups during season changes, will help identify problems before they happen. In turn, keeping your AC unit functioning at optimal functionality year round. 

For all your HVAC maintenance and repairs, contact JD’s AC at (903) 483-3105. We are your trusted HVAC experts covering East Texas and neighboring areas. 

If your air conditioner breaks down,(or is currently) have no fear, JD’s will be there! Till then, keep cool, and be sure to follow the tips mentioned above until our expert HVAC technician arrives.